Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An image processing apparatus for performing geometrical transformation of data stored in accordance with two-dimensional coordinate positions, the apparatus comprising: a control unit configured to decompose a transformation processing from first coordinates to second coordinates into linear transformation and non-linear transformation, the control unit also being configured to determine transformation parameters for the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation; a linear transformation unit configured to perform the linear transformation of the first coordinates to calculate third coordinates; a non-linear transformation unit configured to perform the non-linear transformation of the first coordinates to calculate fourth coordinates; and a combining unit configured to combine the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates, wherein the control unit determines the transformation parameters so that a third quadrangle formed by the third coordinates becomes a quadrangle approximate to a second quadrangle formed by the second coordinates, and sets the transformation parameters for the linear transformation unit and the non-linear transformation unit, respectively.
This invention relates to image processing for geometrical transformations of data defined by two-dimensional coordinates. The problem addressed is the efficient and accurate transformation of image data from an original coordinate system to a target coordinate system, particularly when the transformation involves both linear and non-linear components. Traditional methods often require complex computations or lack precision in handling mixed transformations. The apparatus includes a control unit that decomposes the overall transformation into separate linear and non-linear transformations. The control unit calculates transformation parameters for both components. A linear transformation unit applies the linear transformation to the original coordinates, producing intermediate coordinates. A non-linear transformation unit applies the non-linear transformation to the original coordinates, producing another set of intermediate coordinates. A combining unit then merges these intermediate results to produce the final transformed coordinates. The control unit ensures that the linear transformation approximates the target shape as closely as possible, while the non-linear transformation handles the remaining deviations. This decomposition simplifies the computation and improves accuracy. The apparatus is particularly useful in applications requiring precise geometrical transformations, such as image warping, perspective correction, or coordinate system conversions.
2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit obtains coordinates of four vertices of a first quadrangle formed by the first coordinates and coordinates of four vertices of a second quadrangle formed by the second coordinates, and determines the transformation parameters on a basis of the obtained coordinates of the four vertices.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically to transforming images to correct distortions or align multiple images. The problem addressed is accurately determining transformation parameters to map one set of coordinates to another, particularly when dealing with quadrilateral-shaped regions in images. The apparatus includes a control unit that processes first and second sets of coordinates representing corresponding points in two images. The control unit extracts the coordinates of four vertices from each set, forming a first and second quadrangle. Using these vertices, the control unit calculates transformation parameters that define how the first quadrangle should be transformed to match the second quadrangle. This transformation can include scaling, rotation, or perspective adjustments. The method ensures precise alignment by focusing on the geometric relationship between the vertices of the two quadrilaterals, which is useful in applications like image stitching, document scanning, or augmented reality where accurate spatial mapping is required. The approach avoids complex point-by-point matching by leveraging the four-corner structure, simplifying the computation while maintaining accuracy.
3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit determines the transformation parameters so that three points out of the four vertices of the third quadrangle coincide with three points out of the four vertices of the second quadrangle.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically for transforming a quadrangular region in an image to align with another quadrangular region. The problem addressed is accurately mapping one quadrangle to another while preserving geometric relationships, which is useful in applications like image stitching, perspective correction, or document scanning. The apparatus includes an image processing unit that identifies a first quadrangle in an input image and a second quadrangle in a reference image. A control unit calculates transformation parameters to align the first quadrangle with the second quadrangle. The transformation ensures that three of the four vertices of the first quadrangle match three of the four vertices of the second quadrangle. This partial alignment allows for flexible adjustments while maintaining geometric consistency, which is particularly useful when full alignment is impractical or unnecessary. The transformation may involve scaling, rotation, or perspective adjustments. By fixing three vertices, the fourth vertex is determined automatically, ensuring a mathematically consistent transformation. This approach reduces computational complexity compared to full four-point alignment while still providing accurate results for many practical applications. The method is applicable in various fields, including augmented reality, medical imaging, and automated document processing.
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit determines the transformation parameters so that an absolute value sum of distances between the four vertices of the third quadrangle and the four vertices of the second quadrangle becomes smallest.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically to an apparatus that transforms a first quadrangle in an input image into a second quadrangle with improved alignment. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate geometric transformation of image regions, particularly when mapping one quadrangle to another, to minimize distortion and alignment errors. The apparatus includes a control unit that calculates transformation parameters to map a first quadrangle in the input image to a second quadrangle. The transformation is optimized by ensuring that the sum of absolute distances between corresponding vertices of the first and second quadrangles is minimized. This optimization step ensures that the transformation is as accurate as possible, reducing geometric distortion in the output image. Additionally, the apparatus may include an image acquisition unit to capture the input image and a display unit to output the transformed image. The control unit may also perform preprocessing steps, such as edge detection or feature extraction, to identify the vertices of the quadrangles before applying the transformation. The transformation parameters are computed to align the vertices of the first quadrangle with those of the second quadrangle, ensuring minimal deviation between corresponding points. This method is particularly useful in applications requiring precise geometric alignment, such as document scanning, medical imaging, or augmented reality, where maintaining accurate spatial relationships is critical. The optimization of transformation parameters ensures that the output image retains the intended geometric structure with minimal distortion.
5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit determines the transformation parameters so that a ratio of an area within the area of the third quadrangle that overlaps with the area of the second quadrangle becomes largest.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically optimizing the alignment of overlapping geometric shapes in digital images. The problem addressed is accurately determining transformation parameters to maximize the overlap area between two quadrangles (four-sided polygons) within an image, ensuring precise alignment for tasks like image stitching, object tracking, or geometric correction. The apparatus includes an image processing unit that identifies a first quadrangle in an image and a second quadrangle in a reference image. A control unit calculates transformation parameters to align the first quadrangle with the second quadrangle. The transformation parameters are adjusted to maximize the overlapping area between the aligned first quadrangle and a third quadrangle, which is derived from the second quadrangle. The third quadrangle may be a transformed version of the second quadrangle or a subset of it. The control unit ensures the transformation parameters optimize the overlap ratio, improving alignment accuracy. This approach is useful in applications requiring precise geometric alignment, such as medical imaging, satellite imagery, or augmented reality, where overlapping regions must be accurately matched for analysis or visualization. The method dynamically adjusts transformations to achieve the largest possible overlap, enhancing the reliability of image processing tasks.
6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit decomposes the transformation processing into addition of the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation, and the combining unit adds the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates.
The invention relates to image processing apparatuses designed to enhance image transformation efficiency. The apparatus addresses the challenge of performing complex image transformations, which often require significant computational resources and time. The apparatus includes a control unit and a combining unit. The control unit decomposes the transformation process into two distinct components: a linear transformation and a non-linear transformation. This decomposition simplifies the overall transformation by breaking it into more manageable parts. The combining unit then processes the transformed coordinates. Specifically, it takes the third set of coordinates, which are derived from the linear transformation, and the fourth set of coordinates, which are derived from the non-linear transformation, and adds them together to produce the final second set of coordinates. This approach reduces computational complexity by separating the transformation into simpler operations, allowing for faster and more efficient image processing. The apparatus is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time image adjustments, such as video processing, medical imaging, or augmented reality, where speed and accuracy are critical.
7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit decomposes the transformation processing into multiplication of the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation, and the combining unit multiplies the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically improving computational efficiency in transformation operations. The problem addressed is the high computational cost of applying complex transformations to image data, particularly when combining multiple transformation steps. The solution involves decomposing a transformation process into separate linear and non-linear components, then combining them in a way that reduces computational overhead. The apparatus includes a control unit that processes image data by breaking down a transformation into two parts: a linear transformation and a non-linear transformation. The linear transformation is applied first, followed by the non-linear transformation. A combining unit then merges the results by multiplying transformed coordinates from each step. Specifically, the combining unit takes third coordinates (output from the linear transformation) and fourth coordinates (output from the non-linear transformation) and multiplies them to produce second coordinates, which represent the final transformed image data. This approach optimizes performance by simplifying the mathematical operations required, particularly in scenarios where multiple transformations are applied sequentially. The decomposition and multiplication-based combination reduce the need for complex, high-cost calculations, making the process more efficient while maintaining accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in real-time image processing applications where computational efficiency is critical.
8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the linear transformation is a transformation which is expressible by Affine transformation, and the non-linear transformation is a transformation inexpressible by Affine transformation.
This invention relates to image processing apparatuses designed to enhance image quality by applying both linear and non-linear transformations. The apparatus addresses the challenge of accurately correcting distortions in images, particularly those that cannot be resolved by conventional linear methods alone. The system includes a transformation module that applies a linear transformation, specifically an affine transformation, to correct basic geometric distortions such as rotation, scaling, and translation. Affine transformations are mathematically defined by linear equations and preserve points, straight lines, and planes. However, these transformations are limited in their ability to correct complex, non-linear distortions like lens warping or perspective distortions. To address this, the apparatus also applies a non-linear transformation, which cannot be expressed through affine methods. This non-linear transformation is used to correct higher-order distortions that arise from optical aberrations or non-uniform imaging conditions. The combination of these transformations allows the apparatus to achieve precise image correction across a wide range of distortion types, improving overall image accuracy and quality. The system may be integrated into digital cameras, medical imaging devices, or other applications requiring high-fidelity image reconstruction.
9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein arithmetic precision of the non-linear transformation is lower than arithmetic precision of the linear transformation.
This invention relates to image processing apparatuses designed to enhance image quality through transformations. The apparatus performs both linear and non-linear transformations on image data to correct distortions, improve sharpness, or adjust color. The key innovation is that the non-linear transformation uses lower arithmetic precision compared to the linear transformation. This reduces computational complexity while maintaining image quality. The apparatus may include a memory to store image data and a processor to execute the transformations. The linear transformation, which typically involves operations like scaling or rotation, requires higher precision to avoid artifacts. In contrast, the non-linear transformation, such as gamma correction or tone mapping, can tolerate lower precision without significant quality loss. By optimizing precision levels, the apparatus achieves efficient processing while preserving image fidelity. This approach is particularly useful in real-time applications where computational efficiency is critical, such as video processing or medical imaging. The invention ensures accurate linear operations while simplifying non-linear computations, balancing performance and quality.
10. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein absolute values of results of the non-linear transformation are smaller than absolute values of results of the linear transformation.
This invention relates to image processing apparatuses designed to enhance image quality by applying transformations to image data. The apparatus includes a transformation unit that performs both linear and non-linear transformations on input image data. The linear transformation applies a fixed mathematical operation to the image data, while the non-linear transformation applies a variable operation that adjusts based on input characteristics. The apparatus also includes a selection unit that determines which transformation to apply based on predefined criteria, such as image content or noise levels. The key innovation is that the absolute values of the results from the non-linear transformation are smaller than those from the linear transformation, ensuring that the non-linear adjustments are more subtle and less likely to introduce artifacts. This design allows the apparatus to balance between preserving fine details and reducing noise or distortion in the processed image. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high dynamic range or low-light image enhancement, where both linear and non-linear adjustments are necessary but must be carefully controlled to avoid over-processing.
11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the data stored in accordance with the two-dimensional coordinate positions is image data, and the transformation processing is a transformation processing from the coordinates of the image after geometric transformation to the coordinates of the image before geometric transformation, the apparatus further comprising a unit configured to read the data from an external memory in accordance with coordinates of the image before geometric transformation.
This invention relates to image processing systems that handle geometric transformations of image data. The problem addressed is efficiently accessing and processing image data that has undergone geometric transformations, such as rotation, scaling, or warping, while maintaining accurate spatial relationships between pixels. The apparatus processes image data stored in a memory according to two-dimensional coordinate positions. A key feature is performing an inverse geometric transformation, converting coordinates from the transformed image back to their original positions before the transformation was applied. This allows the system to reconstruct or analyze the original image structure. Additionally, the apparatus includes a unit that reads image data from an external memory based on the original (pre-transformation) coordinates, ensuring that the correct pixel values are retrieved even after geometric modifications. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise spatial mapping, such as medical imaging, computer vision, or augmented reality, where maintaining accurate pixel correspondence between transformed and original images is critical. By enabling direct access to original coordinates, the apparatus avoids the need for complex recalculations or additional storage of intermediate data, improving efficiency and accuracy.
12. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the data stored in accordance with the two-dimensional coordinate positions is image data, and the transformation processing is a transformation processing from the coordinates of the image before geometric transformation to the coordinates of the image after geometric transformation, and the apparatus further comprising a unit configured to write the data into an external memory in accordance with coordinates of the image after geometric transformation.
This invention relates to image processing systems that perform geometric transformations on image data. The problem addressed is efficiently storing transformed image data in memory while maintaining accurate spatial relationships. The apparatus processes image data by converting coordinates from an original image to a transformed image, ensuring geometric transformations like rotation, scaling, or warping are applied correctly. A key feature is a unit that writes the transformed image data into an external memory based on the new coordinates after transformation, optimizing storage and access. The system ensures that the transformed data is stored in a way that reflects the geometric changes, avoiding misalignment or distortion. This is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time image adjustments, such as medical imaging, augmented reality, or computer vision, where precise spatial mapping is critical. The apparatus handles the transformation and memory writing seamlessly, reducing computational overhead and improving processing efficiency. The invention focuses on maintaining data integrity during geometric operations while ensuring fast and accurate memory storage.
13. An image processing apparatus for combining a plurality of sets of image data, the apparatus comprising: an image geometrical transformation unit configured to perform geometry transform of the plurality of sets of image data; an attribute data geometrical transformation unit configured to perform geometrical transformation of the attribute data; and an image combining unit configured to combine the plurality of sets of image data subjected to geometrical transformation by the image geometrical transformation unit, on a basis of the attribute data subjected to geometrical transformation by the attribute data geometrical transformation unit, wherein the attribute data geometrical transformation unit includes: a control unit configured to decompose a transformation processing from first coordinates to second coordinates into linear transformation and non-linear transformation, the control unit also being configured to determine transformation parameters for the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation; a linear transformation unit configured to perform the linear transformation of the first coordinates to calculate third coordinates; a non-linear transformation unit configured to perform the non-linear transformation of the first coordinates to calculate fourth coordinates; and a combining unit configured to combine the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates, wherein the control unit determines the transformation parameters so that a third quadrangle formed by the third coordinates becomes a quadrangle approximate to a second quadrangle formed by the second coordinates, and sets the transformation parameters for the linear transformation unit and the non-linear transformation unit, respectively.
This invention relates to image processing systems designed to combine multiple sets of image data while preserving geometric accuracy. The apparatus addresses the challenge of aligning and merging images with varying perspectives or distortions, ensuring seamless integration of visual and attribute data. The system includes an image geometrical transformation unit that adjusts the spatial alignment of multiple image sets, an attribute data geometrical transformation unit that processes associated metadata or feature data, and an image combining unit that merges the transformed images based on the transformed attribute data. The attribute data geometrical transformation unit employs a hybrid approach to coordinate transformation, decomposing the process into linear and non-linear components. A control unit calculates transformation parameters for both linear and non-linear transformations, ensuring the combined result accurately maps first coordinates to second coordinates. The linear transformation unit applies affine or similar transformations to generate intermediate third coordinates, while the non-linear transformation unit handles distortions, producing fourth coordinates. These are then combined to achieve the final second coordinates. The control unit optimizes the parameters so that the third quadrangle formed by the linear transformation closely approximates the target second quadrangle, ensuring geometric consistency. This method enhances precision in image stitching, panoramic construction, and multi-view rendering applications.
14. An image processing method of performing geometrical transformation of data stored in accordance with two-dimensional coordinate positions, the method comprising the steps of: controlling of decomposing a transformation processing from first coordinates to second coordinates into linear transformation and non-linear transformation, and of determining transformation parameters for the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation; performing the linear transformation of the first coordinates in accordance with the transformation parameters for the linear transformation determined in the controlling step to calculate third coordinates; performing the non-linear transformation of the first coordinates in accordance with the transformation parameters for the non-linear linear transformation determined in the controlling step to calculate fourth coordinates; and combining the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates, wherein the controlling step includes determining the transformation parameters so that a third quadrangle formed by the third coordinates becomes a quadrangle approximate to a second quadrangle formed by the second coordinates.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for performing geometrical transformations of data stored in two-dimensional coordinate positions. The problem addressed is the efficient and accurate transformation of image data from one set of coordinates to another, particularly when the transformation involves both linear and non-linear components. Traditional methods often struggle with computational efficiency or accuracy when handling complex transformations. The method decomposes the transformation process into two distinct steps: a linear transformation and a non-linear transformation. First, transformation parameters for both the linear and non-linear transformations are determined. The linear transformation is applied to the original coordinates to produce intermediate coordinates, while the non-linear transformation is also applied to the original coordinates to produce another set of intermediate coordinates. These intermediate results are then combined to produce the final transformed coordinates. A key aspect of the method is ensuring that the intermediate coordinates generated by the linear transformation form a quadrangle that closely approximates the desired final quadrangle. This approach improves the accuracy and efficiency of the overall transformation by simplifying the non-linear component, which would otherwise require more complex computations. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring precise geometric transformations, such as image warping, perspective correction, or distortion correction in imaging systems.
15. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to perform an image processing method of performing geometrical transformation of data stored in accordance with two-dimensional coordinate positions, the method comprising the steps of: controlling of decomposing a transformation processing from first coordinates to second coordinates into linear transformation and non-linear transformation, and of determining transformation parameters for the linear transformation and the non-linear transformation; performing the linear transformation of the first coordinates in accordance with the transformation parameters for the linear transformation determined in the controlling step to calculate third coordinates; performing the non-linear transformation of the first coordinates in accordance with the transformation parameters for the non-linear linear transformation determined in the controlling step to calculate fourth coordinates; and combining the third coordinates and the fourth coordinates to calculate the second coordinates, wherein the controlling step includes determining the transformation parameters so that a third quadrangle formed by the third coordinates becomes a quadrangle approximate to a second quadrangle formed by the second coordinates.
The invention relates to image processing techniques for performing geometrical transformations of data mapped to two-dimensional coordinates. The problem addressed is the efficient and accurate transformation of image data from a source coordinate system to a target coordinate system, particularly when the transformation involves both linear and non-linear components. The method decomposes the overall transformation into separate linear and non-linear transformations. First, transformation parameters for both the linear and non-linear transformations are determined. The linear transformation is applied to the original coordinates to produce intermediate coordinates, while the non-linear transformation is also applied to the original coordinates to produce another set of intermediate coordinates. These intermediate results are then combined to compute the final transformed coordinates. A key aspect is ensuring that the linear transformation produces a quadrangle (a four-sided polygon) that closely approximates the shape of the target quadrangle defined by the final transformed coordinates. This approach improves the accuracy and efficiency of the transformation process by separating the linear and non-linear components, allowing for more precise control over the transformation parameters. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring high-fidelity image warping, such as medical imaging, computer vision, and graphics rendering.
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July 14, 2020
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